Bouvier des Flandres : Dog Breed Selector : Animal Planet Watch Video The bouvier des Flandres is not a breed that can be put aside until the mood strikes to play with it. It needs daily exercise and daily interaction, and a lot of both. It loves the chance to herd, but its requirements can also be met with a good jog, a very long walk or a vigorous play session. It can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates. It makes a good house dog, however, and would prefer access to both house and yard. Its harsh coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping (clipping for pets and stripping for show dogs) every three months.  Major concerns: CHD Watch Video The bouvier des Flandres served farmers and cattle merchants in controlling cattle in the great farmlands of southwest Flanders and on the French northern plain. In fact, bouvier means "cowherd" or "oxherd" in French, although the dogs were formerly more often called vuilbaard (dirty beard) or koe hond (cow dog).

Besides its main duty as a cattle drover, the bouvier was an all-around farm dog, functioning also as a livestock and farm guard and draft dog. As expected from a dog selected to perform a variety of tasks, these working dogs were of a variety of types, colors and even sizes. This wide variety also reflected the fact that this was a working dog, and breeding stock was chosen by ability, not pedigree or esthetics. The derivation of the breed is not documented but may have included mastiff, sheepdog and possibly even spaniel breeds. The first breed standard, drawn up in 1912, reflected this diversity of types and signaled a growing interest in the breed from dog fanciers. In the midst of the breed's rising popularity, most of the bouviers were lost in World War I  although some served as ambulance and messenger dogs during the war. One of the few survivors was of such superior quality that the breed was successfully revived through his progeny. This dog, Ch. Nic de Sottegem, can be found in virtually every modern bouvier pedigree. In 1922, a revised standard further defined the desirable bouvier type, and helped pave the way to a more homogeneous breed.

When the first bouviers entered American show rings in the 1930s, they aroused much attention among dog fanciers. The breed has never become extremely popular, but it is well-known at dog shows and herding trials. bouvier des Flandres | breed of dog | Britannica.com Bouvier des Flandres Bernese mountain dog Bouvier des Flandres, ( French: “cowherd of Flanders”) cattle-driving dog noted for its working ability. The breed originated in southwestern Flanders and the northern hills of France. It served as an ambulance dog and messenger in World War I . In Belgium it must win a prize in police work or as a guard or army dog before it can gain the title of champion. The bouvier des Flandres is characterized by a rugged appearance and compact build. It has a thick, wiry, tousled-looking coat and may be brown, black, gray, mixed gray and white (salt-and-pepper), or brindle. It stands 23.5 to 27.5 inches (60 to 70 cm) and weighs, ideally, about 88 pounds (40 kg). Bouvier des Flandres.

dog domestic mammal of the family Canidae (order Carnivora). It is a subspecies of the gray wolf (C. lupus) and is related to foxes and jackals. The dog is one of the two most ubiquitous and popular domestic animals in the world (the cat is the other). For more than 12,000 years it has lived with... bouvier des Flandres - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up) breed of herding dog once prized as a cattle drover and guardian (the French word bouvier means "bovine herder"); today it serves mainly as a diligent family watchdog; slightly curly, harsh, bristly, dense coat can be either solid black, salt and pepper, gray, or brindle; abundant beard; ears are usually cropped to stand erect and pointed; tail is docked and carried upright; eyes are oval, deep-set, and dark brown; adult stands 22-28 in.

(56-71 cm) tall at shoulders and weighs 60-70 lbs (27-32 kg); sometimes also called Belgian cattle dog; resolute and fearless demeanor; originated in Flanders several hundred years ago; breed was fostered by Dr. Adolphe Reul of the Veterinary School of Brussels; became almost extinct during World War I when Flanders was the center of intense fighting; revived in 1920s, Article History Corrections? Updates? Help us improve this article! Contact our editors with your feedback. MEDIA FOR: You have successfully emailed this. Error when sending the email. Try again later. Edit Mode Submit Tips For Editing We welcome suggested improvements to any of our articles. You can make it easier for us to review and, hopefully, publish your contribution by keeping a few points in mind. Encyclopædia Britannica articles are written in a neutral objective tone for a general audience. You may find it helpful to search within the site to see how similar or related subjects are covered. Any text you add should be original, not copied from other sources. At the bottom of the article, feel free to list any sources that support your changes, so that we can fully understand their context.

(Internet URLs are the best.) Your contribution may be further edited by our staff, and its publication is subject to our final approval. Unfortunately, our editorial approach may not be able to accommodate all contributions. Submit Thank You for Your Contribution! Our editors will review what you've submitted, and if it meets our criteria, we'll add it to the article. Please note that our editors may make some formatting changes or correct spelling or grammatical errors, and may also contact you if any clarifications are needed. Uh Oh There was a problem with your submission. Please try again later.

Close Article Title: bouvier des Flandres Website Name: Encyclopædia Britannica Date Published: March 19, 2008 URL: Access Date: January 06, 2017 Share Adopt a Bouvier des Flandres | Dog Breeds | Petfinder Home > Dog Breeds > Adopt a Bouvier des Flandres Share this: Adopt a Bouvier des Flandres Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen Family: See more adoptable Bouvier des Flandres dogs available on Petfinder Bouvier des Flandres Dog Temperament The Bouvier is a steady, stalwart companion that is loyal, devoted, fearless and protective. Given daily exercise, he is calm and well-mannered indoors, but ready for an adventure in the great outdoors. He is independent and confident of his own judgment, yet biddable and willing to please. He is reserved, even protective, toward strangers and can be aggressive with strange dogs. He is very good with children, although he may nip at heels in play. Bouvier des Flandres Dog Care The Bouvier des Flandres is not a breed that can be put aside until the mood strikes to play with him.

He needs daily exercise and daily interaction, and a lot of both. He loves the chance to herd, but his requirements can also be met with a good jog, a very long walk or a vigorous play session. He makes a good house dog and would enjoy access to both house and yard. His harsh coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping every three months. Bouvier des Flandres Dog Health Major concerns: CHD Collie Interested in the history of the Bouvier des Flandres dog breed? The Bouvier des Flandres served farmers and cattle merchants in controlling cattle in the great farmlands of southwest Flanders and on the French northern plain. In fact, Bouvier means 'cowherd' or 'oxherd', in French, although the dogs were formerly more often called vuilbaard (dirty beard) or koe hond (cow dog). Besides its main duty as a cattle drover, the Bouvier was an all-around farm dog, functioning also as a livestock and farm guard and draft dog. As expected from a dog selected to perform a variety of tasks, these working dogs were of a variety of types, colors and even sizes.

This wide variety also reflected the fact that this was a working dog, and breeding stock was chosen by ability, not pedigree or esthetics. The derivation of the breed is not documented but may have included Mastiff, Sheepdog and possibly even Spaniel breeds. The first breed standard, drawn up in 1912, reflected this diversity of types and signaled a growing interest in the breed from dog fanciers. In the midst of the breed's rising popularity, most of the Bouviers were lost in World War I although some served as ambulance and messenger dogs during the war. One of the few survivors was of such superior quality that the breed was successfully revived through his progeny. This dog, Ch. Nic de Sottegem, can be found in virtually every modern Bouvier pedigree. In 1922, a revised standard further defined the desirable Bouvier type, and helped pave the way to a more homogeneous breed. When the first Bouviers entered American show rings in the 1930s, they aroused much attention among dog fanciers. The breed has never become extremely popular, but is well-known at dog shows and herding trials.

Copyright © 1998, 2005 by Barron's Educational Series, Inc. based on ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS by D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D. Shelters with Bouvier des Flandres Dogs Some animal welfare organizations with Bouvier des Flandress ready for adoption: No matches found Bouvier des Flandres Breed Information Tendency toward a tolerance for cats and a lower prey drive. 3 stars Child Friendly Dogs that tend to be more sturdy, playful and easygoing around children and more tolerant of children's behavior. 5 stars Tendency to enjoy or tolerate other dogs. 3 stars Level of daily activity needed. 3 stars Amount of bathing, brushing, even professional grooming needed. 5 stars Level of health issues a breed tends to have. 3 stars A dog's thinking and problem-solving ability (not trainability). 5 stars How lighthearted and spirited a dog tends to be. 3 stars Amount and frequency of dog hair shedding. 3 stars Preferred amount of interaction with other pets and humans. 3 stars Tendency to be welcoming to new people. 2 stars A dog's inclination to be protective of his home, yard or even car.

5 stars Level of ease in learning something new and a willingness to try new things. 5 stars A breed that is likely to alert you to the presence of strangers. 5 stars Overview Did You Know? The Bouvier des Flandres has several European nicknames: Vuilbaard (dirty beard), Koehond (cow dog), and Toucheur de Boeuf (cattle driver). The Bouvier des Flandres was created in Belgium as a multipurpose farm dog who could drive cattle, pull carts, and serve as a watchdog. He’s still capable of all these tasks, but nowadays, the Bouvier is primarily a family companion or a show dog best suited to suburban life. Like most dogs with a working background, the intelligent Bouvier is an independent thinker, so he must be taught from an early age that you are his leader. It’s also important to assign him daily “work,” such as helping to pull garden tools around the yard or participating in dog sports, like agility, carting, herding, and tracking. Bouviers are active and athletic, so they enjoy jogging, hiking, and long walks (at least 20 minutes) twice a day.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, look into search-and-rescue training for you and your Bouvier. If you prize a clean home, a Bouvier is probably not the best breed match: His beard will drip after he drinks, and you’ll need to clean it after every meal. His rough coat also attracts plenty of dirt and debris. And the Bouvier is known for flatulence, so you’ll frequently pick up an unpleasant odor wafting through the house. A Bouvier should be serene, yet still have strong guarding instincts. Of course, there’s a difference between protectiveness and hostility — a Bouvier should never be aggressive. He should be able to discriminate between situations that call for action and those that do not, which is why early socialization is essential to keep a Bouvier from becoming overly suspicious or fearful of anything new. Although the Bouvier can be stubborn, he learns quickly and will respond well to kind, firm, and consistent training accompanied by lavish praise. He’s smart and can lose interest in mundane training easily, so aim for short and engaging sessions. The agile Bouvier requires a home with a large yard surrounded by a solid fence that’s at least 5 feet high.

Don’t bother with an underground electronic fence — the shock it emits doesn’t deter this tough dog. Bouviers have a high prey drive and will chase other animals, but if they’re raised with other pets, such as indoor cats , they can learn to live peaceably with them. Ultimately, Bouviers are guardian dogs who are fiercely devoted to their people. In other words, when his family is at home, he should be, too. Other Quick Facts The Bouvier’s coat comes in several colors, ranging from fawn to black. You may also see brindle and salt-and-pepper coats. A small star on the chest is the only white allowed. Bouviers have had roles in movies, including Town and Country and A Dog of Flanders, a film about a boy and his beloved Bouvier. History The History of the Bouvier des Flandres The Bouvier was bred as a farm dog in Flanders, an area located in present day Belgium. He drove cattle to market and worked as a butcher’s dog, often pulling a cart. In 1910, the homely dog was recognized as a specific breed at the International Dog Show in Brussels.

During a meeting of Bouvier breeders in 1912, a breed standard was formally written. World War I nearly put an end to the breed — only a few dogs survived the war — but a dedicated group of breeders managed to replenish Bouvier numbers. The American Kennel Club recognized the Bouvier in 1929, and a number of Bouviers were imported to the United States in the decade that followed. In 1963, the American Bouvier des Flandres Club was formed. Today, the breed ranks 85th among the dogs registered by the AKC. Personality Bouvier des Flandres Temperament and Personality The breed standard calls for the Bouvier to be calm, steady, resolute, and fearless. Bouviers love people and make good family dogs, but they should be supervised around small children. Since the Bouvier is a working breed, he enjoys completing tasks, such as fetching items around the house, tagging along as a running or bicycling partner, and participating in dog sports. This is a smart dog who learns quickly, but he has a mind of his own. It takes an even smarter person, with plenty of patience, to train him.

Bouviers adore praise for a job well done, but once they’ve learned a command or a task, they’re ready to move on to the next one — and they can stubbornly refuse to repeat an action one too many times. Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus ) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.

Health What You Need To Know About Bouvier des Flandres Health Bouviers are susceptible to several health problems , including hip dysplasia , glaucoma, a heart condition called subaortic stenosis, cancer, laryngeal paralysis and hypothyroidism . The Bouvier is also at risk for bloat, a condition in which the stomach expands with air. This can become the more serious condition, gastric volulus, if the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Gastric torsion, also known as gastric dilatation volvulus, strikes suddenly — a dog who is fine one minute can die within a few hours. Watch for the following symptoms: restlessness and pacing, drooling, pale gums, lip licking, dry vomiting , and signs of pain. Gastric torsion requires immediate surgery, and most dogs will bloat again. It’s wise to opt for a procedure known as stomach tacking, which prevents the stomach from twisting in the future. It can also be performed as a preventive measure.

Veterinarians can’t predict if an animal will be free of these maladies, so it’s important to find a reputable breeder and insist upon seeing independent certification that the parents of the dog have been screened for defects and deemed healthy. The American Bouvier des Flandres Club (ABdFC) participates in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC), a health database. For Bouviers to achieve CHICcertification, breeders must submit hip, elbow, and heart evaluations from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), as well as eye clearances from the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). (The minimum age for the eye exam is 18 months.) The ABdFC recommends that CERF exams be repeated every two years, until the dog is 8 years old. And although it is not required, potential owners should also ask for an OFA thyroid evaluation. Breeders must agree to have all test results, positive or negative, published in the database, which can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents.

Careful breeders screen their dogs for genetic disease, and only breed the best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas and a puppy can develop one of these conditions. In most cases, he can still live a good life, thanks to advances in veterinary medicine. And remember that you have the power to protect your Bouvier from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping him at an appropriate weight is a simple way to extend your Bouvier’s life. Grooming The Basics of Bouvier des Flandres Grooming The Bouvier has a double coat, with a tousled look. His undercoat, which offers warmth and water-resistance, is soft, dense, and topped by rough hairs that protect the dog from inclement weather. A mustache, beard, and eyebrows give the Bouvier his characteristic gruff appearance. If you adore the way Bouviers look in the show ring, think twice about getting the breed: This well-coiffed look takes hours to achieve. At home, the Bouvier is your typical shaggy dog. His coat doesn’t shed much, but it does develop mats and tangles if not thoroughly brushed once a week.

A good brushing takes about an hour; ask your breeder or a groomer to show you how to line brush the coat, so you don’t miss any mats. You’ll need a stiff bristle or pin brush, as well as blunt-tipped scissors. If you don’t plan to show him, it’s okay to trim the Bouvier’s beard and coat for easier upkeep. The rest is routine care: bath your Bouvier when he’s dirty, as well as clean his ears and trim his nails on a regular basis. Finding Finding a Bouvier des Flandres Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind. Choosing a Bouvier des Flandres Breeder Selecting a respected breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. Reputable breeders will welcome questions about temperament and health clearances, as well as explain the history of the breed and what kind of puppy makes for a good pet. Don’t be shy about describing exactly what you’re looking for in a dog — breeders interact with their puppies daily and can make accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality.

Lots of breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not? Red flags to look out for: multiple litters on the premises, puppies always being available, having your choice of any puppy, and being offered the option to pay online with a credit card. Breeders who sell puppies at a lower price “without papers” are unethical and should be reported to the American Kennel Club. You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from websites that offer to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run. To start your search, check out the website of the American Bouvier des Flandres Club and choose a breeder who has agreed to abide by the ABdFC’s code of ethics , which specifies that members not place puppies prior to 12 weeks of age, prohibits the sale of puppies through pet stores, and calls for the breeder to obtain recommended health clearances before breeding.

Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations. There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable source for healthy puppies. The cost of a Bouvier des Flandres puppy varies depending on the breeder’s locale, the sex of the puppy, the titles that the puppy’s parents have (working titles are preferable to prove they are good specimens of the breed), and whether the puppy is best suited for the show ring or a pet home. Puppies should be temperament tested, vetted, dewormed, and socialized to give them a healthy, confident start in life.

If you put as much effort into researching your puppy as you would when buying a new car, it will save you money in the long run. Before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Bouvier may better suit your lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a good deal of time and effort before they grow up to be the dog of your dreams. An adult may already have some training, and he’ll probably be less active, destructive, and demanding than a puppy. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that. Adopting a Dog From a Bouvier des Flandres Rescue or Shelter There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started. 1.

Use the Web Sites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can have you searching for a Bouvier in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Bouviers available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review. Social media is another great way to find a dog . Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears. 2. Reach Out to Local Experts Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Bouvier. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations. 3. Talk to Breed Rescue Most people who love Bouvier des Flandres love all Bouvier des Flandres. That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs.

The Bouvier des Flandres Club of America’s rescue group can help locate the perfect companion for your family. You can also search for other Bouvier des Flandres rescues in your area through AnimalShelter . The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Bouvier home with you to see what the experience is like. 4. Key Questions to Ask You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue-group staff or volunteers before you bring home a dog: What is his energy level? How is he around other animals? How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children? What is his personality like? What is his age?

1000+ images about Bouvier puppy on Pinterest | The oc, 4 month olds and 3 month olds Learn more at etsy.com Bouvier Des Flandres art portrait CANVAS print of LA Shepard painting 11X14 dog art Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier SUGGESTED REFERENCE MATERIALS GENERAL INFORMATION Latest edition written and compiled by Kitty Korth for the ABdFC With many thanks to: Arden Shaw, Charlene Berstler and Sally Terroux for their articles. Lyn St Clair artwork, courtesy of and sole property of Kathleen Kane. © Copyright 1994-2001; Rev. 1998. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written permission of the ABdFC. Special thanks to Lyn St. Clair , the artist of the lovely Bouvier artwork found throughout the ABdFC's The Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier des Flandres and Kathleen Kane for allowing the ABdFC use of this artwork for publication of the ABdFC's The Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier des Flandres.

All the Bouvier artwork found in the publication, The Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier des Flandres, and on the The Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier des Flandres web page for this publication is copyrighted by Kathleen Kane and may not be reproduced without the expressed written permission of Kathleen Kane. The publication, The Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier des Flandres, is copyrighted by the American Bouvier des Flandres Club and may not be reproduced without the expressed written permission of the American Bouvier des Flandres Club, © Copyright 1994-2001. The American Bouvier des Flandres Club (ABdFC) The ABdFC, founded in 1963, became a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1971. The ABdFC exists to educate the public, dog fanciers and its membership regarding the Bouvier. The ABdFC, guardian of the breed standard, tries to impart the necessity that responsible breeding maintains and develops the breed's characteristics.

Two excellent publications, THE DIRTY BEARDS ANNUAL and THE DIRTY BEARDS QUARTERLY are available to our members in hopes of enlightening them, and therefore improving the breed. By writing to the ABdFC secretary, you can receive an application for membership, a list of breeders in your area and literature on the breed. It is sincerely hoped that the novice to the breed will avail themselves of the service provided rather than being introduced haphazardly to the breed via "puppy mills," pet stores, or unscrupulous breeders. Through the ABdFC you have the opportunity to meet others with similar goals and interests: obedience, conformation, herding, carting, agility or socializing with your furry friends. INTRODUCTION Have you asked yourself why you want a Bouvier? First and foremost, the Bouvier is a herding dog that possesses certain inherited instincts. It will be the owner's responsibility to channel these traits positively. The Bouvier -- a versatile, intelligent and agile breed -- is not a dog for everyone. By virtue of its size and strength, it is essential that the owner be capable of providing the dog with kind and consistent training.

This handbook is being offered in the hopes that this information will clarify for you whether indeed this is the right breed for you. If, in fact, you are inspired more than ever to experience Bouvier love, then these articles will guide you toward a positive, fun-filled and rewarding life together. For the right family the Bouvier can be the companion of a lifetime. History of the Bouvier des Flandres Origin: Belgium In the late nineteenth century, a program of selective breeding, that would eventually produce the dog we know today as the BOUVIER, was begun in the farming regions of Belgium. Documentation of his ancestry is cloudy, but his beginnings are loosely attributed to a type of sheepdog (berger), the Dutch griffon, and the barbet, or water dog. By 1910, specific interest in this tousled-coated herder and protector grew as far as the cattle areas near the River Lys Valley. At that time, Bouviers were being used as drovers, draft animals, activators for churning mills, and farm and family protectors. Common characteristics were bobtails, cropped ears, a harsh tousled coat, and perfect instincts for guarding his flock, home and family.

In those days, tails and ears were routinely shortened because they were easy targets for farm predators. The first "standard" for the Bouvier des Flandres was developed in 1912. Then, during W.W.I (and later, W.W.II), as the home territory of the Bouvier des Flandres became a battlefield, their numbers were drastically cut – almost to extinction. Those who stayed worked as ambulance litter-pullers and military tracking aides. Only a few escaped to other countries. Those who survived, some taken to France and the Netherlands, became part of discriminating breeding programs for a particular type. The Club National Belge du Bouvier des Flandres, formed in Gent early in 1922, formulated specific qualities of type for future breeding. The Bouvier came to America in the late 1920's, and now extends throughout the US and Canada. The legacy of the Bouvier has produced many admirable qualities in this breed. He is a square, powerfully built dog, rugged and formidable in appearance. His harsh double coat protects him in all types of weather; his keen sense of smell and watchful gaze make him a most suitable farm dog.

(He thrives on plenty of room to work and exercise, but he is not an "outdoor dog"; he must live with his loving people -- his "flock," his "pack".) He is agile, alert and intelligent, with character of great spirit and fearlessness; yet, he is serene in disposition, and has an even temperament. The average size of a Bouvier male is about 26" at the withers (25" for a female), with approximate weight span of 70-110 pounds. Coloring ranges from black to gray, some are silver, salt & pepper, a few are fawn . Today, the Bouvier des Flandres acts as farm dog, family friend and protector, shepherd, and guide dog for the blind or hearing impaired. His intelligence, sense of threat discrimination and keen scent qualifies many Bouviers to excel in police work, tracking and drug detection.

Owning a Bouvier, like many dogs, requires patience, love, a lot of grooming, a willingness to exercise the dog and pay for regular health care, a desire to have a companion who follows you around the house keeping an eye on you, and a commitment to complete at least one set of good obedience classes. IS YOURS A BOUVIER HOUSEHOLD? Consideration of your family's lifestyle is critical. Ask yourself honestly what your expectations, finances and time availability will be. Little bundles of fur turn into very large dogs in need of SOCIALIZATION, TRAINING, GROOMING, AND EXERCISE. SOCIALIZATION: Bouviers are social animals. Meeting your dog's social needs is as important as giving him food or water. The family gives your dog a social structure and a sense of security, which helps him develop into a well-behaved, happy animal. The house becomes his "den," a safe place where he can rest and relax with his family. In short, IF YOU ARE NOT GOING TO MAKE A BOUVIER A MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY, DO NOT GET ONE!

TRAINING: If puppies or adults are to grow into welcome additions to the family and the community, they must be taught proper ways of behaving. If you are lucky enough to have a good dog trainer in your area, see if they offer a puppy kindergarten or beginner's obedience class. Training and socializing your Bouvier gets your relationship off on the right foot. Train with fairness, consistency and lots and lots of praise, and do start as soon as possible. Most dogs react more quickly to praise than to corrections. OBEDIENCE IS A BOUVIER MUST! GROOMING A Bouvier, being a long-haired breed, must be kept clean and well groomed for the comfort of both the owner and the dog. Basic maintenance is not done simply for the esthetics but for the overall health and well-being of the dog. A healthy coat is best gained through good nutrition, exercise, and weekly brushing. The unique qualities of the Bouvier coat keep shedding problems to a minimum. The longer, harsh guard hairs of the outercoat tend to keep the shedding undercoat from falling to the floor or being deposited on furniture or clothes. Instead, the dead hairs become matted in the coat if a weekly procedure of grooming is not observed.

Grooming should be a simple and enjoyable matter for the owner and animal. An hour or less a week spent on a thorough brushing will keep the coat from becoming tangled and matted and will also remove all loose hairs. All that is required is a thorough line brushing followed by a combing to the skin. Cut his nails and clean his teeth with a tooth scaler, followed by a scrubbing with baking soda on a damp cloth or toothbrush. Clean his outer ear canal thoroughly with a cotton ball dipped in ear cleaner, then dust with ear powder and pull the long hairs from the canal. Ask your breeder for a demonstration of the basic grooming techniques necessary to keep up with the Bouvier coat. Grooming is best begun as early as possible and is most easily done with the dog on a raised platform or grooming table. Time spent in grooming can also double as a training session to teach your dog such helpful commands as "stand", "stay", "sit", and "down". Owner and dog will build a greater rapport with one another if grooming remains positive. Patience is the keyword here. To trim and shape the coat, begin grooming with an efficient brushing.

Start at the head with a stiff bristle or pin brush and brush forward toward the head, making sure the coat separates to the skin and that you are not just brushing the surface. Next start at the rear and brush the hair back into place. Legs should also be brushed up and then down. This method insures good stimulation of the skin and removal of loose hair. Trim the top of the skull to 1/2" in length with thinning shears, scissor eyebrows diagonally from the outside corner to the center of the eye -- leaving the fall and eyebrows full. The coat should be left approximately 2 -1/2" long with a level topline. Remove wild hairs. Legs should be full with straight lines. Cut hair from between toes with blunt-nosed scissors and shape the foot to roundness with thinning shears. Try to find a groomer that can help you with your first few groomings until you are comfortable grooming your Bouvier yourself. EXERCISE Every dog should have his own fenced yard to play in and relax. Every dog deserves a daily walk or play with his owner, too. Active time together provides you the opportunity to build a strong bond of affection with your dog.

It's a great time to brush up on obedience practice, too. Dogs on a walk get to socialize with other dogs and people. The more they go out, the better behaved they will become. The dog that is seldom walked will become overly excited and hard to control with all the new sights and smells. What should have been an enjoyable activity for you both has now become a chore. Most dogs do not run around the yard enough to get the exercise they need to stay healthy and fit. Yard bound dogs become bored. Bored, inactive dogs can easily develop behavior problems, such as chewing, digging, barking, jumping and destruction. These problems are their way of venting frustration and stress. Dogs were bred through the centuries for working, herding, and other jobs, and they still need an outlet for their energy. A good walk or lively game of fetch will help keep your Bouvier fit to live with. AT HOME WITH YOUR BOUVIER Housetraining : The method for housetraining a puppy or an adult dog is very similar. Even if your new dog is supposed to be housebroken, it is wise to follow these guidelines until he has adjusted to his new home.

Dogs are happiest when their days follow a routine. Once you decide on the schedule, you must follow it every day -- even on the weekend! Choose logical times to take your dog out for a potty break: immediately when he first wakes up in the morning, immediately when you first get home from work, immediately when he wakes up from a nap, and an hour or so after each meal, etc. Always use the same command -- "outside", "go potty", etc. Take him to the same spot every time so he recognizes the odor and gets the idea of what is expected. You MUST stay with your dog so you can praise him when he goes. If you're not there, he'll have no idea why he's outside and may be so interested in getting back in the house with you that he'll forget to go. Be patient! If you do not follow up every day, rain or shine, it will take longer for your dog to be housetrained. If you are religious with his routine, your dog should begin to get the idea after the first week, but to be completely reliable could take several months, especially for puppies.

Crate Training: Once you understand the idea of crate training your dog, you will find a crate can be a humane and effective solution to a list of common problems: 1) A crate is a safe haven for your dog. 2) Crating prevents chewing and other types of destruction. 3) A crate prevents house soiling. 4) A crate is a safe place to ride in the car. A crate should be big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in when he is full grown. Start out slowly and never force your dog into the crate. This should always be a positive experience. Throw a treat in and let him get it and run right back out. Repeat until he is comfortable going in and out. Start feeding your dog in the crate with the door open, putting the food a little further back in the crate with each meal. When he shows no fear of being inside (this can take days) quietly shut the door for a few seconds, praise him and then open the door, letting him come out. After a few days of this, shut the door and sit outside for a few minutes. He may fuss at first, but just ignore him. Praise him and let him out as soon as he settles down.

Gradually increase the amount of time he spends in the crate and the distance you are from the crate. Never give him attention when he is fussing or whining, neither sympathy nor correction. Do not leave a dog in the crate too long. Four hours during the day is enough, with shorter times for puppies. The crate should always be a safe, happy place for your dog. It is not a place to punish him. You can keep the crate in your room at night, so he can be with you without getting into mischief. You will rest easier and have a happier dog if he is crate trained! ! House Proofing: When bringing a new dog, or puppy, into your home show him the toys that are his. Replace an inappropriate object that he may find with one of his own toys. Put away anything dangerous (such as certain plants) or valuable items (books, remote controls, tapes, shoes, etc.). Sometimes spraying Bitter Apple on items that are not easily put away can deter the dog's attention to something acceptable. Puppy or Adult: If you have the time and family situation that welcomes a puppy be sure to take the time and effort to find a qualified breeder.

In this way you can find the best puppy for your family situation. (See Finding a Breeder) Young dogs and puppies require a great deal of attention, training and time if they are to become a pleasant part of your life. Leaving for work at 7:30 AM and coming home at 6:00 PM five days a week does not leave much time for working with a four-legged baby. They say wine improves with age. So can dogs. With the busy lifestyle many people now lead, adopting an older dog is often better than getting a puppy. Take heart if you want a dog, yet realize that a puppy may not be for you. Check with a local breeder or a Bouvier rescue group. Given time and care, an older dog can bond just like a puppy . Leash Training: Your dog must be taught to walk freely on a leash and have good manners. Start first with a soft nylon or leather collar and switch later to a light choke collar. Leave the collar on for short periods at first, then attach a leash that can be dragged along behind. Face the puppy/dog while backing up, and call him towards you.

Have him come with you by occasional short, sharp tugs on the leash interspersed with a lot of pats and "good boys." As time progresses, exert a little more force with the tugs. A choke collar should be removed after every exercise. NEVER leave a choke collar on a loose dog. The dog can get his paw stuck through the collar or catch the collar on a fence or other protrusion and choke to death trying to free himself. Thousands of dogs die an agonizing death this way each year. A choke collar should only be used when attached to a leash. Children: The parent who teaches a youngster proper behavior with a puppy or dog is establishing a lifelong pattern for the child. Parents should never allow a child to pick up or carry a puppy. When a child plays with a puppy it should always be at ground level. The child, who helps train the puppy, with adult supervision, also gains a sense of responsibility while learning about canine behavior. Both the puppy/dog and the child should be taught that there is a special place in the house where the dog can go to be alone.

A crate, a dog bed, a corner or a spot under a table should be reserved for the pup and the child should be taught to respect the dog's solitude. Please remember: Young children should never be left alone with a dog. Discipline, when necessary, must be done correctly. If something inappropriate occurs, have the child walk away. The discipline should be done by an adult. DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO DISCIPLINE ! Bouviers grow to be quite large. Do not allow the puppy to play or interact with children or adults in a way that would be unsafe when he is 80 pounds plus (i.e. Jumping up). It takes time, effort and commitment on the part of the parents to develop mutual respect and love between dogs and children. Care/Training Providers: You will need various qualified specialists to assist you with your Bouvier -- veterinarians, groomers and trainers (obedience, herding, agility, etc.). This is not the time to settle for the closest or least expensive provider. Ask around, and get the best referrals possible. Cutting corners at the start can be very expensive in the long run.

Find someone you can work with and call with your questions, and someone who really wants to help you and your dog. Your breeder should have some suggestions of Care/Training Providers that can be of great help in your area. How To Select a Breeder By Sally Terroux Over 50% of the puppies raised in the US are raised by people who NEVER have another litter. Relatively few of these people are well informed, prepared for the experience, and do a good job. They don't usually stand behind their puppies. Very few are equipped to take adequate care of all puppies until they can be placed in good homes, regardless of how long that takes. Another LARGE PERCENTAGE of puppies are raised by "PUPPY FARMS" that sell numerous litters of many breeds, or sell to retailers for resale. That leaves a relatively small percentage of puppies being raised by experienced people who are dedicated to one or two breeds and raising puppies for reasons other than maximum profit. Not all of these breeders are knowledgeable and conscientious. HOW DO YOU IDENTIFY AN EXPERIENCED CONSCIENTIOUS BREEDER? 1. When you inquire about a puppy, the breeder will interview you.

You know they will not sell you a puppy simply because you want one and have the money to pay for one. They want to know that you can house and raise their puppy appropriately and that their puppy will have one permanent home for his entire lifetime. 2. You will talk to and buy the puppy from the breeder who raised the litter and owns or co-owns the mother (or the dam). Conscientious breeders don't trust other people to screen puppy buyers for them and would never offer a puppy as a prize or for an auction. Their puppies don't cost any more because there is no "middle-man". All puppies will have had at least one DHLP and Parvo vaccination and a worm test or a worming. 3. The breeder will know the ancestry of the puppies. Not just parents, but grandparents and beyond. Not just titles and colors, but strong points and weak points of personality and structure. 4. The breeder will tell you what genetic screening (such as OFA Xrays) is necessary for that breed, and will be willing to discuss problems and show proof of genetic screening. 5. You won't see multiple litters of multiple breeds.

One to three breeds is typical and one to three litters a year TOTAL is typical. You will see evidence (photos, books, possible awards) of long term interest and activity in the breed. The puppy's environment will be clean with ample room for exercise. Puppies confined to a small area can't grow normally and are difficult to housetrain. 6. The puppies will not have been separated from their mother and littermates at less than 6 weeks of age. Many breeders consider 7-8 weeks ideal, some later. But if you look at puppies over 12 weeks of age, be certain they have had enough individual attention and separation from one another, that they are more bonded to people than to other dogs. 7. All things discussed and implied will be written down in a contract. The breeder will be there to help and advise you throughout the life of the puppy. Even to the extent of replacing a puppy in the case of an inherited defect. Many breeders will ask you to bring the puppy (or dog) back to them at any age if for any reason you can't keep him. 8.

Unless you are very serious about becoming a student of your breed and a conscientious breeder, you will be encouraged to take a spay/neuter agreement or an AKC non-breeding registration. The breeding of dogs is a responsibility that shouldn't be entered into lightly. The prevention of overpopulation and haphazard breeding is the responsibility of the person selling the puppy. 9. The breeder will insist that you prepare an appropriate place at home for your puppy before you take your puppy home. They will give you thorough personal instructions on puppy feeding and care and a record of vaccinations and worming. 10. If an AKC registration application is not yet available, the breeder will furnish you with the registered names and numbers of the sire and dam, birthdate of litter and name, address and phone number of breeder as the AKC requires. BOUVIER HEALTH Bloat: This can be a life threatening disease that usually affects deep chested dogs in the prime of life. Bloat involves a swelling up of the stomach from gas, fluid, or both. The signs can be a combination of any of the following: excessive salivation, drooling, extreme restlessness, attempts to vomit and defeca~e, and abdominal distention.

In nearly all cases there is a history of overeating, eating fermented foods, drinking excessively after eating or vigorous exercise after a meal (within 2 or 3 hours). Bloat calls for IMMEDIATE veterinary attention. All dog owners should make sure they are thoroughly acquainted with both the symptoms and cures for the condition. Heartworm: Your dog needs to be put on a heartworm preventative and kept on it for life. If you live in an area where mosquitoes are a year-round problem you must treat him year round. If you live in a seasonal climate you may only need to give treatment from May until the first frost. Ask your veterinarian which treatment is appropriate for your dog. If you do not treat year-round the dog must be retested each year before resuming treatment. In the following "Canine Disorder Quick Reference Table" you will find tables on common dog ailments and their symptoms and treatments. These tables are not all-inclusive but may be used as a ready reference. As always, CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN at the first sign of illness or injury. Bouviers des Flandres: What's Good About 'Em? What's Bad About 'Em?

More traits and characteristics of the Bouvier des Flandres If I was considering a Bouvier des Flandres, I would be most concerned about... Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Bouviers MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing. Bored Bouviers can make a shambles of your house and yard. Providing enough socialization. Most Bouviers have protective instincts toward strangers. They need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal behaviors of "good guys." Then they can recognize the difference when someone acts abnormally. Without careful socialization, they may be suspicious of everyone, which could lead to biting. Some Bouviers go in the opposite direction -- without enough socialization, they become fearful of strangers, which can lead to defensive biting. Animal aggression. Many Bouviers are dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. Some have strong instincts to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures. If anything goes wrong in the breeding, socializing, training, handling, or management of this breed, it is capable of seriously injuring or killing other animals.

The strong temperament. The Bouvier des Flandres is not a Golden Retriever. The best Bouviers are versatile working dogs, capable of learning a great deal, but they have an independent mind of their own and are not pushovers to raise and train. They can be manipulative, and some are willful, obstinate, and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. To teach your Bouvier to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. My Bouvier des Flandres Training Page discusses the program you need. Grooming. To keep their coat short and free of mats, the Bouvier des Flandres requires regular brushing, and also clipping and trimming every few months. But don't expect your pet Bouvier to look like the Bouvier des Flandres show dogs you've seen in books or on TV. That particular look takes hours of work by experienced show groomers. "Shaggy dog syndrome." Like all shaggy dogs, the Bouvier des Flandres is a messy dog.

Leaves, mud, snow, fecal matter, and other debris cling to his rough coat and ends up all over your house. When he drinks, his beard absorbs water, which drips on your floors when he walks away. When he eats, his beard absorbs food so that when he sniffs your face or presses his head against your leg, YOU end up dirty, too. Big shaggy dogs are not suited to fastidious housekeepers. Gassiness (flatulence) that can send you running for cover. Fortunately, Bouviers who are fed a natural diet of real meat and other fresh foods have much less trouble with gassiness. See my Bouvier des Flandres Health Page for more information. Health problems. Bouviers are susceptible to hip and elbow disorders, cancer, bloat, and more. To learn more about training Bouviers des Flandres to be calm and well-behaved, consider my dog training book, Teach Your Dog 100 English Words . It's a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will make your Bouvier des Flandres the smartest, most well-behaved companion you've ever had.

Teaches your dog to listen to you, to pay attention to you, and to do whatever you ask him to do. My dog buying guide, Dog Quest: Find The Dog Of Your Dreams , will teach you everything you need to know about finding a healthy Bouvier des Flandres. Health problems have become so widespread in dogs today that this book is required reading for ANYONE who is thinking of getting a purebred, crossbred, or mixed breed dog. If you'd like to consult with me personally about whether the Bouvier des Flandres might be a good dog breed for your family, I offer a Dog Breed Consulting Service . Once you have your Bouvier des Flandres home, you need to KEEP him healthy -- or if he's having any current health problems, you need to get him back on the road to good health. Raise your dog the right way and you will be helping him live a longer, healthier life while avoiding health problems and unnecessary veterinary expenses. Please consider adopting an ADULT Bouvier des Flandres... When you're acquiring a Bouvier des Flandres PUPPY, you're acquiring potential -- what he one day will be. So "typical breed characteristics" are very important.

But when you acquire an adult dog, you're acquiring what he already IS and you can decide whether he is the right dog for you based on that reality. There are plenty of adult Bouviers des Flandres who have already proven themselves NOT to have negative characteristics that are "typical" for their breed. If you find such an adult dog, don't let "typical breed negatives" worry you. Just be happy that you found an atypical individual -- and enjoy! Save a life. Adopt a dog. Bouvier des Flandres Rescue and Adoption - Adopt a Bouvier des Flandres Near You If you would like us to e-mail you when new pets are added that match your search criteria, please enter your e-mail address here! Email Re-type Email to Confirm I would like to receive the latest special deals, inspiring stories, great advice, and awesome videos via email and other marketing communications from Purina and its brands.* * I certify I am 18 years of age or older and agree that Purina may use my information as described in the Privacy Policy and About Our Ads . Yes, I would like to receive communications from the Petco Foundation on their lifesaving work.

Yes, I would like to receive useful information about flea and tick prevention from Bayer , special offers, and coupons via email. Find a Bouvier des Flandres or mix near you to adopt. Why find a Bouvier des Flandres for sale when you can adopt? See photos of cute Bouvier des Flandres to rescue in your area. Search Bouvier des Flandres by size, color, gender and age. Read more about each Bouvier des Flandres' personality traits, and favorite things to do. This pet-saving service is funded by the passionate pet lovers at Rescue & Adoption: Why Adult Bouvier des Flandres Make Better Pets By By Adopt-a-Pet.com's Pia Salk So, you want to adopt a Bouvier des Flandres, huh? Great idea! Want to hear an even better idea? Rescue an adult Bouvier des Flandres. No pooch is too old for puppy love and puppies are only puppies for a few months after all, right? Oh, you have your heart set on a cute little Bouvier des Flandres puppy? Have you been looking at Bouvier des Flandres puppies for sale, checking out Bouvier des Flandres puppy breeders?

OK, here's some food for thought if you have your heart set on a puppy, and a few reasons why adopting an adult might be your better option: What It Takes to Housebreak a Puppy Before you adopt a Bouvier des Flandres, consider how much time your new family member will spend alone. Remember, a puppy requires constant attention. The key to successful housebreaking is consistency; preventing "accidents" is key. Once a puppy soils the carpeting, it becomes much more difficult to train them out of that behavior. Here's a good rule of thumb to consider: a puppy can hold his bladder just one hour for every month they've been alive. For instance, a 3-month-old puppy will need to empty his bladder every three hours! Before you adopt a Bouvier des Flandres puppy, ask yourself if you are available to walk your dog several times throughout the day, and if you have the patience and commitment to wake up and take him out first thing every morning at the same time, and stick to a strict schedule. Of course, before you can walk him at all, you will need to train him to walk on a leash, which is a project in itself.

On the other hand, an adult dog's bladder is already fully developed. Shelter dogs are often already housetrained and Bouvier des Flandres rescue groups can tell you if their adult dogs for adoption are housebroken before they go into your home. You also have the advantage of knowing that your dog is physically able to "hold it" for several hours at a stretch. In most cases, adult dogs are by far easier to housebreak than puppies. You can teach an old dog new tricks! Puppy Behavior Sometimes Isn’t Pleasant Sure, Bouvier des Flandres puppies are super-cute, but simply put, puppies can be adorable, relentless machines of destruction. Even the most well-behaved puppy will destroy shoes, clothing, paper, remote controls, telephones, leashes, dog beds, carpeting…anything and everything. More rambunctious pups have been known to obliterate sofas, car seats, Venetian blinds, electrical cords, door frames…you name it, they can eat it or shred it. And when they're teething, look out! Cute puppies have very sharp teeth, and they are happy to use your hands, feet, nose, hair, etc, as a chew toy.

Ouch! Needless to say, a teething Bouvier des Flandres puppy and a small child do NOT make good companions! To keep the puppy from hurting himself, and to prevent the destructive behavior from becoming a bad habit, you will need to spend every waking moment supervising his every move. Do you have that kind of time? Many Bouvier des Flandres dogs in shelters or with rescue groups are already trained and ready to go! Adults have a much longer attention span than puppies, too, which means they're easier and faster to teach. Adult dogs already have recognizable personality traits, so you'll be able to select one who is great with children. Many Bouvier des Flandres rescue groups use foster homes to make sure each Bouvier des Flandres for adoption is trained to be well-behaved indoors. Although all dogs need attention and playtime, an adult dog's needs are far less demanding than a puppy's. You Won’t Know a Puppy’s Personality for Sometime With an adult Bouvier des Flandres, what you see is what you get. Their personality is already developed, and you'll be able to spot the characteristics you're looking for much more easily than with a puppy Bouvier des Flandres.

Shelters and rescue groups are able to assess the personality of each Bouvier des Flandres for adoption, and carefully match you up with the right dog for your lifestyle. When you adopt a puppy, there is a lot more guesswork involved. Adult Bouvier des Flandres Adoption = An Instant Friend for Life Ask anybody who has adopted an adult dog, and they'll swear their bond with their rescued pal is as deep as they come. When you open your heart and your home to a dog who needs help, they really do show their appreciation for the rest of their life! Dogs who have been uprooted from their homes, or have had difficult beginnings are likely to bond completely and deeply with their new human caretakers who they view as heroes. Bouvier des Flandres who find themselves in the shelter or at a rescue group because of a death or other tragedy in their former human family usually go through a mourning period. Once they are adopted, however, they usually want nothing more than to please their new hero---YOU! No matter what circumstances brought them to the shelter or rescue group, most Bouvier des Flandres dogs for adoption are exceptionally affectionate and attentive pets and extremely loyal companions. But first you have to adopt one!

Adult Bouvier des Flandres Adoption = Truly Saving a Life When you adopt an adult dog, you are doing the ultimate good deed. Let's face it: at first a lot of people think they want to find Bouvier des Flandres puppies for sale, but not everyone is lining up to adopt the great adults! Some people might have the misconception that Bouvier des Flandres in shelters have something wrong with them. In fact, most Bouvier des Flandres for adoption end up in shelters not because of any problem with pet behavior or health issues, but because they were dropped off by someone who simply didn't have the time or money to care for the animals. In some cases pets are lost and never found by their owners. These animals are healthy and very eager to please. Did you know that every year, approximately 4 million adoptable animals are killed? A staggering 25% of those animals are purebreds, so you can bet there is a Bouvier des Flandres in need of adoption. With such a huge overpopulation problem, looking for a Bouvier des Flandres dog for sale, or Bouvier des Flandres puppies breeders, sadly contributes to this tragedy.

Rescue groups that specialize in adoption work very, very hard to help adult dogs find good homes. Rescues are almost always made up of a group of volunteers. They often keep Bouvier des Flandres for adoption in their own homes while they assess their health and personalities. If a dog needs basic training, often the rescuer will provide it. If a dog needs medical treatment, many dedicated dog rescuers pay for it out of their own pocket. These people are incredibly passionate about rescue, and they work tirelessly to make sure every dog finds a home. Nothing is as rewarding to these heroes as a successful adoption! Please help these healthy pets, before looking at a Bouvier des Flandres puppies breeder, or a Bouvier des Flandres puppy for sale search our Bouvier des Flandres adoption database at this page! Adoption Means a Healthier Bouvier des Flandres as You’re Pet Shelters have dogs of all breeds, including purebred Bouvier des Flandres. These dogs sometimes end up in shelters because a Bouvier des Flandres dog breeder, or someone who had Bouvier des Flandres puppies sale was not able to find a home for all the dogs.

These people are sometimes called "backyard" breeders. These are people who make some easy cash by breeding purebred Bouvier des Flandres over and over then try to make easy cash by posting Bouvier des Flandres puppies for sale in newspaper classified ads. Remember that most of these backyard Bouvier des Flandres dog breeders don't know about breeding for favorable health and temperament qualities, and they don't know how to raise a properly socialized litter. Many of the Bouvier des Flandres dog breeders wean litters from their mothers way too soon. Sometimes, a backyard Bouvier des Flandres puppies breeder turns into small-time puppy mill to increase their supply so you can find Bouvier des Flandres puppies for sale all the time in order for profits to grow. What are puppy mills? A puppy mill is basically a purebred puppy factory farm where the puppies are just churned out as fast as they can in order to have, for example, as many Bouvier des Flandres dogs for sale as possible. The dogs are kept in small cages and forced to breed at unhealthy rates… it's all about the money.

Female dogs in puppy mills are made to have several litters per year, which is extremely dangerous and cruel. Usually Bouvier des Flandres breeders pay little attention to the specific health and genetic diseases due to in-breeding, reluctantly they don’t inform whoever is looking for a Bouvier des Flandres dog for sale about this problem. Genetic health testing is almost unheard of and mass-producing pets for profit is the bottom-line. In the worst puppy mills, horrifying conditions are the norm. How can you stop puppy mills? There is only one way. Take away their profits. Remember before you look for an a Bouvier des Flandres sale, or Bouvier des Flandres dogs for sale keep in mind that adoption is the most humane option! We want to spread the word! If you have contact info for a shelter in one of these places that does not have pets posted with us, please e-mail us and we'll contact them.

California Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, San Francisco, Irvine, San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Oakland, Sacramento, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Bakersfield, Ontario, Walnut Creek, Santa Cruz, Northern, Southern, Central, Concord, Hanford, Los Angeles County, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Riverside County, Mission Viejo, Yolo, San Bernardino County, San Francisco, San Jose, San Rafael, Novato Santa Clara County, San Fernando Valley, Simi Valley, San Gabriel Valley Texas Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Waco, Austin, El Paso, Corpus Christi, Abilene, Amarillo, Western Texas, Eastern Texas, San Marcos, Dallas County, Harris County, Galveston, Brazoria, McAllen, San Antonio New York New York City, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, Albany, Niagara Falls, Kings County, Queens County, Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island Florida Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Gainesville, Tallahassee, Pensacola, Fort Lauderdale, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Broward County, Miami Dade County, Sarasota, Bradenton, St.

Petersburg, Clearwater, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton Illinois Chicago, Springfield, Peoria, DeKalb, Bloomington, Cook County Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, Lancaster, Allentown, Erie, Bethlehem Ohio Cleveland, Toledo, Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Canton, Akron, Youngstown, Hamilton Michigan Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Saginaw, Ann Arbor, Flint Michigan, Holland, Wayne County Ontario Toronto, Ottawa, Windsor, Kingston New Jersey Newark, Trenton, Jersey City, Atlantic City, Camden, New Brunswick, Hackensack Georgia Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, Valdosta North Carolina Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, Gastonia, Rock Hill, High Point, Chapel Hill Virginia Richmond, Arlington, Norfolk, Lynchburg, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, Newport News Massachusetts Boston, Springfield, Worcester, Cape Cod, Lawrence, Fall River Indiana Indianapolis, Evansville, Gary, Muncie, Bloomington, Richmond, Centerville Quebec Montreal, Quebec City Washington Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Everett, Kirkland, Bellingham, Vancouver, King County, Bremerton Tennessee Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Jackson, Davidson Missouri St.

Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Jefferson City, Muskegon, Holland Wisconsin Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Kenosha, Wisconsin, Racine Maryland Baltimore, Annapolis, Bethesda, Gaithersburg Arizona Flagstaff, Phoenix, Mesa, Yuma, Tucson, Maricopa County, Casa Grande Minnesota Minneapolis, St.

Paul, Rochester, Duluth Louisiana New Orleans, Lafayette, Baton Rouge Alabama Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, Decatur Colorado Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, Fort Collins, Aurora, Greeley Kentucky Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green South CarolinaColumbia, Charleston, Greenville Oklahoma Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Muskogee Oregon Portland, Eugene, Ashland, Klamath Falls, Salem Connecticut Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, Waterbury, Stamford Iowa Des Moines, Sioux City Mississippi Jackson, Gulfport Kansas Topeka, Wichita, Kansas City, Dodge City Alberta Edmonton, Calgary Utah Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, Cedar City, Moab Nevada Reno, Las Vegas, Henderson, Carson City New Mexico Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Los Alamos, Alamogordo West Virginia Charleston, Clarksburg Idaho Boise, Twin Falls, Idaho Falls Maine Portland, Kennebunk, Augusta New Hampshire Concord, Manchester, Nashua, Berlin HawaiiHonolulu, Oahu, Maui, Hilo, Kailua Rhode Island Providence, Newport, Portsmouth, Warwick British Columbia Victoria, Vancouver, Prince George Montana Billings, Great Falls, Bozeman, Missoula, Helena Nova Scotia Halifax South Dakota Rapid City

, Pierre, Sioux Falls Newfoundland and Labrador St.

John's North Dakota Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks Alaska Fairbanks, Anchorage, Juneau Vermont Burlington, Montpelier, Newport, Bennington District of Columbia Washington DC Wyoming Cheyenne, Jackson

Question: A Bouvier is what type of animal?
Answer: Dog